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The Endangered Species - An Account of the Journey of Faith by the Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri Community

Posted on Mon, 2015-05-11 20:17

The second edition of Hassan A M Jaffer’s most celebrated book ‘The Endangered Species: An Account of the Journey of Faith by the Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri Community’ is available from the World Federation store.

Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheris are spread over 5 continents and number just under 125,000. Despite being a small percentage their perceived influence and fame belies their numbers - hence the title, The Endangered Species. The author, Hassan A M Jaffer, deftly delves into a narrative based on the characteristic migratory patterns of the Khojas, hailing from Kutch and Kathiawad, who ventured towards the then unknown continent of Africa during the 19th century and beyond to the West in the past 4 decades. The survival journey taken by this small community although traumatic and extremely difficult, resulted in the Khoja’s prospering and establishing themselves in various parts of the world.

The book presents an interesting analysis of the hardships and challenges faced by the Khojas all while maintaining their identities and values. It has been written in an easy to read style with many illustrations making it simple for the youth to understand.

This is an interesting analysis of five generations and five continents later, what factors contributed to help retain its identity and optimized its social capital. Equally importantly, the book addresses the dispersal of the community and what future lies ahead for it.

Every Ramadan, the Ramadan Relief Fund distributes food parcels to numerous countries around the world. Each parcel contains enough good quality food to feed a family of four for the whole Holy month of Ramadan.